ElectroLaser� stencils are a hybrid technology that offers the precision of laser cut apertures and the enhanced paste release properties of 100 percent electroformed nickel. ElectroLaser� stencil print studies verify that the base material of almost pure electroformed nickel resulted in significant improvements to the aperture wall smoothness. The print studies also confirm enhanced printed deposits similar to electroformed stencils.

Pure nickel material cannot be cut on any laser system. However, the combination of pure nickel and the new LPKF Multicut laser system offers superior results without the long-term times and high cost. Compared to industry standard stainless steel, pure nickel, laser-cut stencils do not contain the trace elements that are liberated to the aperture walls, causing increased surface roughness. This becomes a crucial element as aperture surface area ratios fall below 0.55.

ElectroLaser� stencils offer the natural lubricity of electroformed nickel, which improves fine-pitch print consistency and results in increased manufacturing yields. Apertures have very smooth walls, combined with trapezoidal formation, to offer the best paste release characteristics from today�s most challenging designs.

ElectroLaser� nickel stencils also offer a more durable surface hardness when compared to stainless steel, nickel plated, or Slic stencils, resulting in longer stencil life and improved wear characteristics.

ElectroLaser� stencils have a thickness tolerance of �8 percent of material thickness selected, and are suitable for applications with surface area ratios down to 0.55. Featuring a positional accuracy of �0.008 percent and an aperture dimensional tolerance of �8 �m (0.0003"), the following standard material thicknesses are available: 0.003, 0.004, 0.005 and 0.006". Additional thicknesses are available upon request.